Filing your taxes should be a straightforward and cost-free process, yet many Californians find themselves paying for services like TurboTax, which has a history of lobbying against free tax filing initiatives

(propublica.org).

Fortunately, there are accessible and free tax filing programs available to help you maximize your tax refund without incurring unnecessary expenses.

Understanding the Landscape

Companies like Intuit, the maker of TurboTax, have invested heavily in lobbying efforts to maintain a profit-driven tax preparation industry (OpenSecrets).

This has contributed to a complex tax system where many feel compelled to pay for tax preparation services. However, in California, several free tax programs are designed to assist residents in filing both federal and state tax returns efficiently.

Free Tax Filing Options in California

As a community resource, our team at Brightwayz is working to share information to improve access to non-paid tax preparation services, consider the following free tax filing programs:

1. United Way Bay Area's Free Tax Help: This program offers multiple free tax preparation services, including:
   • Self-Preparation Online: Utilize platforms like IRS Direct File or TaxSlayer through UWBA’s link to file your taxes independently.
   • Virtual Assistance: Receive support via Zoom while you file your taxes, ensuring you can ask questions in real-time.
   • Remote Tax Assistance: An online tax team prepares your return for you after you complete an online intake process.
   • In-Person Tax Preparation: Access local tax preparation services near you with IRS-certified volunteers ready to assist.

You can find these resources at the following Link: https://uwba.org/what-we-do/free-tax-help/

Maximizing Your Tax Refund

By utilizing these free tax preparation services, you can ensure accurate tax return preparation and filing, potentially increasing your tax refund. These programs are designed to help you navigate both federal and state tax obligations without the need for paid services.

Conclusion

While paid services like and TurboTax are heavily marketed, remember that free tax filing programs are available and accessible. By choosing these free options, you can file your taxes efficiently without incurring unnecessary costs, thereby keeping more of your hard-earned money.

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Please note that a portion of this post was written using AI to support research and content development